Get Health Benefits from Walking

For most people, walking is a safe activity and it helps make the bones stronger and keep the joints healthy. Walking:

• may lower the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, and some types of cancer
• is good for the brain and it may lower the risk of dementia
• can put you in a good mood
• may make you feel less tired

Walking can be Social

You may find that you can walk longer when you walk with another person. Think about inviting someone to walk with you.​

When I go walking, what should I bring?

When you walk, wear good walking shoes so you’re safe and comfortable. It’s also a good idea to bring water, a healthy snack, and a cell phone with you.

You may also enjoy walking with poles. When you walk with poles, you use your arms, upper body, and core muscles (abdominal, pelvic, and back muscles) more. ​​​​​​Walking with poles is also called Nordic walking or urban poling.

Use walking poles like cross-country ski poles. Walk as you normally do and think of swinging your arms like you are marching. With each step, push down on the poles to move you forward.

You can also have an instructor teach you how to use walking poles safely.